Group prepares for READI 2.0

Kevin Green, Greensburg Daily News, Ind.
·2 min read

Oct. 24—GREENSBURG — The Greensburg Decatur County Economic Development Corporation continues to work on multiple fronts stimulate the local economy and lay the groundwork for growth in the future.

EDC director Bryan Robbins described the recent Reality Check event at Greensburg Junior High as a success, noting eighth-grade students from all area schools attended.

Reality Check, Robbins said is a nice perspective for the students as to what life is going to bring.

EDC was also involved in Manufacturing Day, partnering with manufacturers such as Delta Faucet and Honda to discuss the manufacturing industry with local students.

READI projects were reviewed at a recent meeting of the EDC including the opening of the Building Bridges Inclusion Park.

The board also discussed focus points for anticipated READI 2.0 funding such as childcare, entrepreneurship and housing. Robbins said the state of Indiana has $500 million set aside for READI 2.0, with each region participating being able to receive up to $75 million.

EDC's collaboration with Decatur County REMC on broadband development was discussed.

Robbins explained that EDC and REMC are trying to champion something called infrastructure development zones, which are tax abatements for companies wanting to extend broadband service to the county's rural areas. Robbins emphasized that the infrastructure development zone abatements have not been adopted yet, saying it will be introduced to the county commissioners at their Nov. 6 meeting.

Another item EDC is exploring regarding broadband development is Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program funding. To be eligible for BEAD funding, Robbins explained, "we need as accurate a broadband service map as possible."

EDC is working to coordinate more broadband speed tests and urges residents to take those tests as they become available.

Other items discussed by EDC were an itinerary for an upcoming trip to Japan for Robbins and Greensburg Mayor Joshua Marsh next month; they will be visiting companies that have invested in Decatur County and exploring possibilities for expansion such as suppliers relocating to Decatur County or the surrounding region. The trip is via the South Central Indiana Economic Development group and will also include representatives from Bartholomew, Jackson and Jennings County.

Contact Noelle Maxwell at news@greensburgdailynews.com.